http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00phtcz/The_Art_of_Russia_Smashing_the_Mould/
A very interesting documentary about the relationship between the Communist leadership and art, with analysis of posters and paintings. A fascinating look into how art was influenced and used by the leaders to promote even very basic messages, for example encouraging workers to read, and advertisments for ‘Communist biscuits’. The presenter argues that Communist posters for products like bread and cigarettes were the predecessors to modern capitalist advertising . It also gives a great summary of the Communist interpretation of the October Revolution, and the use of cinema to convey this to the masses. It ends with a look at art after the collapse of Communism, and modern Russian art. I thoroughly recommend watching it. (It’s only available until Tues 13th September, but I will look into finding the whole series).
Mrs Canning
